Therapeutic community work with people who have sexually offended: responding to developments in research and practice
Therapeutic Communities: The International Journal of Therapeutic Communities
ISSN: 0964-1866
Article publication date: 1 September 2021
Issue publication date: 14 October 2021
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to review the clinical approach adopted in prison-based therapeutic communities (TCs) for working with residents who have committed sexual offences. It reviews recent research and practice developments and explores the implications for TCs.
Design/methodology/approach
This paper describes a “think tank” review process which explores and reviews practice. This paper discusses the current approach adopted by TCs when working with those who have sexually offended and explores changes in clinical approach which could be considered in the light of current developments.
Findings
This paper explores the implications for TCs of the recent research and wider practice developments in interventions for those who have sexually offended.
Practical implications
This paper presents clinical options for working with those who deny their offence and undertaking victim empathy and offence disclosure work. It makes recommendations regarding staff training and support. It also discusses the strengths of the TC approach and how these can be built upon.
Social implications
This paper makes recommendations concerning how practice could be improved which promotes safety and public protection and enhances resident well-being.
Originality/value
There has been no recent review of TC clinical practice for working with those who have sexually offended.
Keywords
Citation
Shuker, R. and Jones, L. (2021), "Therapeutic community work with people who have sexually offended: responding to developments in research and practice", Therapeutic Communities: The International Journal of Therapeutic Communities, Vol. 42 No. 3, pp. 121-134. https://doi.org/10.1108/TC-12-2020-0023
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2021, Emerald Publishing Limited